Coho Derby finishes well

Submitted by Sandspit Rod & Gun ClubDown the home stretch they came! Saturday was a dark and stormy day and not a good one for fishing or stopping at the shack for something to eat. However, Sunday was gorgeous and the fishing was the best of the derby.Once again the shore fishers proved they could produce. Shain came out to the shack at high tide and spotted some fish swimming by and induced one to bite. He weighed it in as it got him on the board. Back to the water and a few casts later another hit and he weighed in the derby winner, all in a span of 30 minutes. Maybe this shoreline fishing has more going for it than generally believed. Shain is the first repeat winner since 1975 and the second year in a row to catch the winner from the beach.The other categories weren’t as dynamic as the open competition, however the tension was apparent. One of the lady competitors was visualizing and vocalizing what a 16 lb. 9 oz. Coho would look and feel like to insure her ‘bragging rights’. Always nice to see the ladies out, and see their success. There’s still some discussion around how the ladies get their own category. It’s because some of the men who donate to the derby support the ladies category big time.The juniors had some entrants; however the weather wasn’t the best for kids in a boat and the Coho didn’t really show up until this weekend. Good to see the kids and parents out doing their best though.A great derby and for those who didn’t make the board – there is next year. Thanks to all the participants, volunteers and sponsors that make this community event special and an anticipated yearly derby. May the Spirit of the Coho carry on.Of course, with the Copper Bay shack and Ray K. keeping things cooking and weighing this is always a memorable outing and event. Thanks again to Ray and his dedicated crew of volunteers who kept things humming.The Finish Line1. Shain Olsen 15# 06 oz2. Bill Yovanovich 14# 10 oz3. Jim Girban 13# 14 oz4. Brenna O’Brien 12# 14 oz5. Dan Coulter 12# 04 oz6. Jeremy Botel 11# 15 oz7. Bob Botel 11# 12 oz8. Jim Henry 11# 02 oz9. Jasin Wourms 11# 00 oz10. Jaylund Russ 10# 14 ozTop Ladies1. Brenna O’Brien 12# 14 oz2. Andrea Schabernak 10# 12 ozJuniors1. Jacey Pollard 09# 11 oz2. David Putterill 09# 03 ozIt was good to see all the local and not so local folks around Copper Bay during the derby. This is a great place to socialize and compete in a community event. Congratulations to the winners and looking forward to the Derby Dinner, Awards and Dance on Nov. 19th, where the ‘Braggin’ Rights’ will be officially bestowed. Thanks again to all.